Python is a high-level, interpreted, and general-purpose programming language. It was created by Guido van Rossum, and first released in 1991. Python was designed and developed to emphasize code readability and to allow for code reuse. It is an effective language for scripting, automation, and web and application development.

Python is an object-oriented programming language and has a clean, easy-to-understand syntax, making it a popular language for experienced and novice developers alike. The language has continued to evolve over the years, with a focus on supporting multiple programming paradigms, such as procedural, object-oriented and functional programming.

Python is also an open-source language, meaning that its source code is freely available, and can be modified and distributed without having to pay for a licence or royalty fee. The language continues to be popular and is used across a range of industries, from web development to data analysis. Python is particularly favoured due to its breadth of libraries and frameworks, which allow developers to accomplish tasks quickly and efficiently.